AceShowbiz - NBC veteran Craig Melvin will take over as co-anchor of "Today" after Hoda Kotb steps down permanently from her longtime role on January 10. Melvin, 45, who has been a pivotal part of NBC for 14 years, will join Savannah Guthrie starting January 13.

Following Kotb's emotional farewell announcement, Melvin expressed his gratitude, saying, "I want to thank NBC and the folks who deemed me worthy, but I've got to start by thanking the man upstairs, the Lord above and his son, Jesus."

Previously, Melvin co-anchored the weekend edition of "Today" and currently co-hosts the third hour of the show. His experience and dedication to journalism have earned him a permanent place on the morning program.

Kotb, who has been with NBC since 1998 and has co-anchored "Today" with Guthrie since 2018, endorsed Melvin wholeheartedly. "Craig, you are made for this job," Kotb told him, "You have all the things that this job needs."

Melvin, who shares two children with sports anchor and reporter wife Lindsay Czarniak, emphasized the importance of family and thanked his parents for overcoming obstacles to support him. Longtime "Today" show weatherman Al Roker also congratulated Melvin, saying, "I've watched you grow... You are so worthy of this."

Following her departure, Kotb will devote more time to her family. Reflecting on turning 60, Kotb stated, "I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new." She emphasized her children's need for more of her time, saying, "My children deserve a bigger piece of my time pie."

While Kotb leaves a significant legacy, changes will also occur in "Today" fourth hour, co-hosted by Jenna Bush Hager. The show will be rebranded as "Today with Jenna & Friends," featuring a rotating cast of personalities until a permanent co-host is named.

Melvin will continue to co-anchor the third hour of "Today" in addition to his new responsibilities. Stepping into this new role, Melvin's enthusiasm and readiness to connect with the audience were evident as fans cheered him on at Rockefeller Plaza.

Kotb's heartfelt departure and Melvin's enthusiastic welcome bring a fresh dynamic to "Today," ensuring the show continues to captivate and inform its viewers each morning.